Situated right at the tip of Australia’s Northern Territory, the remote Arnhem Land is one of the world’s last remaining unspoiled natural areas. Known for its stunning coastlines, rugged cliffs and strong Aboriginal culture and traditions, this wonderful wilderness’ wetlands are home to a diverse range of wildlife. The waters surrounding the wild Gove Peninsula are teeming with marine life; sadly, water pollution caused by marine debris is putting many species, and their habitats, under threat. Make an impact by assisting in this important marine rescue project, as you help to conduct an annual marine debris survey at Cape Arnhem Land.

Working alongside indigenous Dhimurru Aboriginal Rangers, you’ll walk stretches of beautiful local beaches, helping to collect any debris and record data on what you’ve found. The information you catalogue will help inform future strategies to reduce pollution, so you’ll know you’ve made a real impact! You’ll work in spectacular Arnhem Land scenery, with stunning and untouched outback coastlines your backdrop, and get a unique chance to learn from knowledgeable local Aboriginal Rangers. For travellers looking to give something back, this is a fantastic opportunity to help conserve and protect marine life, whilst also enjoying the thrill of an authentic Australian wilderness adventure!

Oceanic pollution caused by marine debris is a major environmental issue. According to a report by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), ‘long stretches of the northern Australian coastline are being swamped by tonnes of plastic containers, oil and fuel drums, fishing gear and nets.’ Not only does this marine debris ruin the relatively unspoiled natural beauty of the area, but it also poses a substantial threat to marine wildlife, including endangered species such as turtles and dugongs. Working alongside the Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation, Tangaroa Blue and Conservation Volunteers Australia, Naturewise Eco Escapes contributes to the conservation and protection of marine wildlife in the Cape Arnhem region.

Volunteers are an integral part of the ongoing work to clean-up the ocean, protecting marine wildlife and their habitats to ensure their long-term survival. Naturewise Eco Escapes’ project allows volunteers to explore stunning national parks and conservation reserves, whilst also making a valuable and meaningful contribution. During the first half of this project, volunteers conduct daily beach-walks, collecting marine debris as they walk along the coast. The second part of the project involves cataloguing and recording data on this collected debris – the data is then sent on to Tangaroa Blue, an Australian charity that focuses on removing and preventing marine debris, and helps to inform management strategies to aid pollution reduction.

Day 1

Spend a full day travelling from Darwin to Bulman. Once your camp for the night is set up, prepare dinner and enjoy your first meal under the stars.

Day 2

Travel to the remote community of Nhulunbuy, a town situated on the Gove Peninsula. Arriving late in the afternoon, you’ll settle into your new accommodation.

Day 3-7

Each day you’ll visit far-flung and hard to reach beaches, travelling by Four-Wheel Drive. Here, you’ll participate in Marine Debris clean-up activities alongside indigenous rangers from the Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation. These activities involve walking along the beaches, stopping to collect marine debris before organising and cataloguing whatever you collect. It’s not all work, though! There’ll be plenty of time to enjoy some of the local sights and activities including the Gayngaru Wetlands Interpretive Walk, Wurrwurrwuy Macassan Beach Interpretive Walk, Yirrkala Art Centre and Marika Lookout. And, of course, admire the stunning Arnhem Land sunsets each evening!

Day 8

Leave the Gove Peninsula and return to Bulman, where you’ll set up camp before dinner.

Day 9

The final stage of your journey is a road-trip back to Darwin. You’ll arrive at around 5.30pm.

Rate Conditions

The rate shown is a 'from' price based on bunk room/camping accommodation

Click 'Ask a Question' up above for full project dates and costs

Maximum 6 people per group

Minimum age for participation is 14

Participants under 16 are to be accompanied by an adult.

This trip offers guaranteed departures subject to 4 people travelling

In the event of a cancellation by the traveller more than 30 days before start date, 15% of the program cost will be forfeited. For cancellation 30 and 14 days before start date, 30% of the program cost will be forfeited. For cancellation less than 14 days before start date, 100% of the program cost will be forfeited. There is no refund after starting the program.

The cancellation fee is payable within 14 days of the cancellation. Your payment is non-refundable should you fail to join the program or leave the program at any time. Click 'Ask a Question' for more information.